Itinerary

The centre of Mexico City's buzzing metropolis still moves to the beat of its Aztec heart. Hit the town Mexican-style for a night of mariachi music or escape the crowds on an optional day trip to the canals and gardens of Xochimilco.

Start the day with a ride on one of Mexico's colourful buses to Puebla. Soak up the city's colonial charm, visit the market for handicrafts, try some mouth-watering mole poblano or head out for an optional hike to Puebla's nearby volcano.

Peruse Oaxaca's main plaza and take in the cosmopolitan atmosphere. Head out to the impressive Zapotec ruins of Monte Alban. Satisfy culinary cravings by sampling Oaxaca's famous chocolate and cheese. The more adventurous may want to try the local delicacies - chocolate-covered grasshopper or mescal, complete with a worm at the bottom of the bottle.

Discover a world of jungle-entangled ruins in the cool climes of Mexico's mountains at San Cristobal de las Casas. Venture to the hills to explore local villages or perhaps take a day trip to the breathtaking Sumidero Canyon. For a slower pace, stop in at a cafe and sample coffee from one of the world's premier coffee growing regions.

The Palenque ruins are one of the most impressive Mayan sites in Mexico. Climb the temples, which is the best vantage point for spying on the exotic wildlife of the surrounding Chiapas Jungle. Cool down in the nearby Agua Azul and Misol-Ha waterfalls, a shimmering invitation too good to refuse!

Journey to the colonial city of Merida in the Yucatan Peninsula. Cruise the mansion-lined Paseo Montejo, hang out in the Plaza Grande or hit the clubs to learn some dance moves. Spice up your life and try El Yucateco, a hot sauce guaranteed to blow taste buds away. Merida is also an ideal base for an optional visit to the incredible Uxmal ruins.

Stand in awe of the incredible ruins of Chichen Itza, which were once an ancient ceremonial centre. Follow the scent of fresh sea air to the cool Caribbean. In free time, opt to go snorkelling, swimming or diving around nearby reefs and islands - or simply unwind on palm-fringed beaches and sip cold margaritas while watching a spectacular, golden sunset at Playa Del Carmen.